While the Annapolis County municipal administration building was not fully functioning for part of the morning due to power outages related to post tropical storm Arthur, the July session of the Annapolis County committee of the whole council received an update on storm recovery efforts.

EMO update

David McCoubery, the regional emergency coordinator reported on storm recovery efforts. He said at a full review of the emergency would be conducted over the coming weeks. Councillors passed a motion to thank the hundreds of volunteers who were helping residents cope with the power outages. It was noted that the volunteer fire departments throughout the region opened to provide water, food, communications and other support to their respective communities.

While the power outages many have dominated the background, the councillors also discussed issues relate to sidewalks, community grants and recreational lands.

Nictaux Sidewalks

The council agreed to contribute a maximum of $125,000 for the construction of a paved shoulder along Highway 10 from the Annapolis River to highway 201. The shoulder will provide a travel way pedestrians.

Orchard Drive Recreation

The council agreed to spend $5,000 for the purchase of about 10,000 square feet of land adjacent to Orchard Drive, Nictaux, for the creation of a walking trail. The landowner, Middleton Holding Ltd and Loris Connell, will donate an additional 900 square feet.

Bay of Fundy Lands

The councillors agreed to forward a letter to the province encouraging them to purchase shoreline properties in the St. Croix Cove area along the Bay of Fundy.

Community Grants

The committee of the whole council is recommending one-time grants to the King Theatre Society, $2,000, the Lawrencetown and District Recreation Commission, $500, and the Wilmot Community Centre Society, $2,400.

Moments of Silence

At the request of Councillor Alex Morrison, the council asked that staff to develop guidelines for the memorial activities undertaken by the municipality. These include declaration of moments of silence, the flag at half mask and similar memorial recognition.

Graywood Forest Management

The council agreed to seek proposals for the harvest of county owned lands in Graywood using the forest stewardship council certified management plan that has been developed.

August Committee Meetings

The council agreed to suspend all meetings of committees of the council for the month of August unless emergency issues arise.